Learn Outside. Think Deeper. Explore with Purpose.
Hands-on outdoor learning experiences for homeschool students, curious youth, and families in Santa Barbara County.
At Pathfinder Outdoor Labs, our mission is to develop resilient, self-directed learners through meaningful outdoor experiences that blend scientific inquiry, engineering thinking, and environmental stewardship. We believe students learn best when they can explore, question, observe, build, and reflect in real-world environments. By transforming local parks, beaches, and natural spaces into living classrooms, we help young people develop curiosity, confidence, critical thinking skills, and a lifelong connection to the natural world.
Our Core Pillars
Scientific Inquiry
We don’t just memorize facts; we investigate. Students learn to observe closely, ask critical questions, and design field studies to understand Santa Barbara’s unique ecosystems.
Engineering Design
Nature is our laboratory. By applying engineering principles to real-world environmental challenges, learners design, prototype, and test solutions using raw materials and modern tools.
Resilient Leadership
True learning requires grit. Through immersive outdoor problem-solving, we cultivate self-reliance, adaptability, and the confidence to navigate complex challenges.
Nature Is Our Laboratory
Pathfinder Outdoor Labs was born from a simple observation: some of the most meaningful learning happens outside the classroom.
Throughout my career—as a U.S. Navy helicopter mechanic, mechanical engineer, educator, and lifelong outdoor enthusiast—I have seen firsthand how people learn best when they are actively engaged in solving real problems, asking thoughtful questions, and exploring the world around them.
I founded Pathfinder Outdoor Labs to create the kind of learning experiences I believe every young person deserves: experiences that foster curiosity, resilience, critical thinking, and a deeper connection to nature. By combining scientific inquiry, engineering design, and outdoor exploration, I help learners develop the confidence to navigate challenges both on the trail and in life.
Nature is our laboratory, and every adventure is an opportunity to discover something new.
— Casey Cleland, Founder
How Pathfinder Works
Every session begins with curiosity. Learners explore local parks, trails, beaches, and natural spaces while practicing careful observation and asking meaningful questions about the world around them.
Students engage in hands-on scientific inquiry, environmental exploration, and guided discussions that encourage critical thinking and deeper understanding.
Using engineering thinking and creative problem-solving, learners tackle real-world challenges through building, testing, and refining solutions.
Through journaling, discussion, and mentorship, students connect their experiences to larger ideas while developing confidence, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning.
Intentionally Small. Incredibly Impactful.
To ensure high-quality mentorship, safety, and deep peer-to-peer collaboration, our seasonal cohorts are strictly limited in size.
We select families who are passionate about giving their children a deeper connection to science and the outdoors. Start the process today by completing an interest form.